Blockstream’s New Epstein Files: The Crypto Scandal That Has Everyone Talking!

by

As the calendar turns to February 2026, a rather scandalous avalanche of documents from the Department of Justice has swept through our beloved crypto discourse like a particularly persistent breeze on a summer’s day. The narrative now unfurling ties digital currencies and the esteemed Blockstream in a most disconcerting embrace with the infamous Jeffrey Epstein.

The Epstein Files: A Whiff of Controversy Surrounding Blockstream as Adam Back Shakes His Head in Denial

In a world where cryptocurrencies are already floundering about like a fish out of water, social media has now latched onto a grand revelation of over three million pages of delightful documents, images, and videos-yes, quite a plethora-pertaining to investigations into the late purveyor of mischief, Jeffrey Epstein. It appears our dear DOJ decided that we could all do with some intrigue, particularly when many of these records flirt with the notion of digital currencies and, heaven help us, bitcoin.

One particularly titillating thread from the year 2014 details the illustrious firm Blockstream and its then-CEO Austin Hill-a role now graced by the ever-watchful Adam Back. The emails recount Blockstream’s charming little investor roadshow and make a casual mention of Joi Ito, who was head of MIT Media Lab at the time. Such delightful mingling!

During this merry time, Epstein was an investor in Ito’s fund, and lo and behold, Blockstream crossed paths with him. It would seem that Ito’s fund later bestowed a minority investment upon Blockstream. In the recently unveiled Epstein files, Blockstream pops up no less than 45 times-why, it’s practically a recurring character! Following this latest drama, Adam Back took to the social media stage to address this riveting 2014 email exchange.

“In 2014, during Blockstream’s seed-round investor roadshow, the company was introduced to then MIT Media Lab director Joi Ito,” Back wrote. “Subsequently Blockstream met with Jeffrey Epstein, who was described at the time as a limited partner in Ito’s fund. That fund later invested a minority stake in Blockstream.”

And then, dear readers, he added:

“A few months later, Ito’s fund divested its Blockstream shares due to a potential conflict of interest, and other concerns. Blockstream has no direct nor indirect financial connection with Jeffrey Epstein, or his estate.”

This declaration, however, was met with a cascade of skepticism. One witty observer quipped, “Sus af,” while another chimed in with the sage observation, “Funny how people only release statements once files get leaked.” Ah, the brilliance of hindsight!

Further inquiries arose regarding the timing of such meetings, especially considering Epstein’s brushes with the law dating back to 2006, which were more scandalous than a Victorian novel. One astute individual questioned:

“Why would Blockstream meet with Epstein in 2014 when he was arrested in 2008?”

Indeed, the Epstein files plunge into the depths of bitcoin and digital assets, illuminating discussions involving early figures in the crypto scene, including Stellar and Ripple Labs founders, with Austin Hill making a celebrity appearance alongside Reid Hoffman.

Among other thrilling revelations, the files also hint at conversations with a “ Bitcoin founder” (potentially a nod to the ever-elusive Satoshi Nakamoto), exchanges debating Bitcoin’s true identity with Peter Thiel, and even brainstorming for a proposed “Sharia Coin” tailored for Saudi Arabia. Because why not?

FAQ ❓

  • What are the Epstein files and why are they relevant to bitcoin?
    The newly released DOJ Epstein records bear references to digital currencies, bitcoin-related discussions, and meetings involving early crypto figures and firms. Quite the literary treasure trove!
  • Why does Blockstream appear in the Epstein files?
    Blockstream is mentioned in connection with a 2014 seed-round investor roadshow and meetings involving a fund linked to Epstein and former MIT Media Lab director Joi Ito. Oh, the tangled webs we weave!
  • Did Jeffrey Epstein invest directly in Blockstream?
    According to Blockstream CEO Adam Back, the company has no direct or indirect financial connection to Epstein or his estate. A classic case of “not my circus, not my monkeys!”
  • Why is the crypto community revisiting this now?
    The file release has prompted renewed scrutiny of early bitcoin-era relationships, emails, and investor introductions. A veritable treasure hunt for the curious!

Read More

2026-02-02 19:32